Elisabeth Wilson, doctoral graduate research assistant in zoology, and Wyatt Whiteaker, a senior majoring in chemistry education, have been selected to attend the 2018 Catalyzing Advocacy for Science and Engineering Workshop March 18-21 in Washington, D.C. It is a program held annually by the American Association for the Advancement of Science.

The workshop is designed for students in science, technology, engineering and mathematics fields who want to learn about science policy, the structure and organization of Congress, the federal budget and appropriations process and tools available for effective science communication and civic engagement. The program aims to empower attendees with strategies and methods to become voices for basic research throughout their careers.

NDSU is a 2018 sponsoring institution of the event and both students' participation costs will be covered by the Office of Research and Creative Activity.

Attendees were selected based on recommendations from faculty and others involved with their education. Wilson's recommendations noted her ability to purposefully connect with technicians, staff, faculty and her peers and her keen interest in learning about science policy. Whiteaker's recommendations included how he is an advocate for engagement in science and engineering and how the future K-12 teacher's role as a STEM coach for teachers and students will be strengthened through the workshop content.

In addition to the learning content of the CASE Workshop, student attendees also will have the option to form teams and conduct meetings with their elected members of Congress and congressional staff.

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